Utagawa YOSHIFUJI (1828-1887)

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An exceptionally rare print with inscription which reads: Koneko yoriatsumatte oya ni naru, “The kittens gather together and become a mother cat”. The cat’s body is formed by the convoluted forms of nineteen kittens, it’s eye is a cat’s bell and the whiskers are the spines of a fan. Another ( faded ) impression is illustrated in Edo no Asobi-e, Shinichi Inagaki, 1988, no 24, p 29. I have never seen another impression since I started dealing. No publisher given, c 1847-52.

Fine impression and colour. Very slight trimming at left, otherwise fine. Signed Ichihosai Yoshifuji ga.

Status: Sold